The NRL has imposed fines totaling $40,000 on expansion franchise Perth and its foundation coach Mal Meninga for breaching the league’s anti-tampering regulations. The penalties stem from media remarks made by Meninga regarding the Bears’ interest in Penrith star Nathan Cleary and Canterbury duo Matt Burton and Jacob Preston.
Background of the breach
The NRL tightened its rules during the pre-season, making clubs liable for fines if they are perceived to be publicly courting players before the final year of their contract. Cleary, Burton, and Preston are unable to negotiate with rival clubs until November 1, as they are contracted with their current teams through 2027.
In comments made to News Corp last month, Meninga stated that Perth would be “in the picture” for second-rower Preston beyond that date and that there had been “a heap of noise” around Burton. He also hinted at signing Cleary from Penrith if the halfback decides to test the market from November.
Meninga's comments
“We will have enough money in our cap to maybe chase a Nathan or a Jake (Preston) if they come on to the open market,” Meninga said. Nathan Cleary has yet to decide whether he will test the market, according to reports.
Details of the fines
Meninga’s $20,000 fine has been suspended, but the NRL’s forthcoming 18th franchise will pay their own $20,000 sanction upfront. Both the Bears and Meninga have five business days to respond to their breach notice.
Impact on Perth's roster building
The fines come as a demoralising blow for Perth, whose inaugural roster still lacks a marquee player ahead of their 2027 entry into the NRL. Without any extra salary-cap assistance, the Bears have been forced to compete for player talent with fellow expansion side PNG, which enters the league in 2028.
The federal government-backed Chiefs can offer tax-free salaries to their players and have already signed Wests Tigers star Jarome Luai, the league’s greatest-ever try-scorer Alex Johnston, and former State of Origin utility Connor Watson. In contrast, the Bears’ only signing with Origin experience is Siosifa Talakai, who played two games for NSW in 2022. Their only premiership players so far are Penrith bench forwards Liam Henry and Scott Sorensen.
